Top 5 Signs Your Ford F-Series Commercial Truck Needs Service

If your business, no matter how big or small, owns a Ford F-Series commercial truck, you’re going to want to stay on top of regular maintenance and other services whenever necessary. Maintaining your fleet of vehicles is key to your business’s success, as not doing so can lead to larger, more expensive issues down the road. So, if you think you need some help figuring out what’s up with your vehicle, here are the top 5 signs that your Ford F-Series commercial truck needs service.

The first is the most obvious, but it’s important to reiterate. Pay attention to your dashboard warning lights! They all have a purpose and meaning, so it’s crucial to know exactly what they mean and what you should do about them. You can look through your owner’s manual to get the exact information on what each one looks like and represents, but some of the most important to keep in mind are your Service Engine Soon, Brake System and Battery lights.

Any time you notice a fluid leaking out of your vehicle is a cause for concern. Your vehicle needs many fluids to operate, beyond just the fuel you put in it every few days. The one you’re likely second most familiar with is oil, but there is also brake fluid, transmission fluid, engine coolant and even washer fluid. If you ever notice fluids pooling up under your vehicle when it’s parked, that’s a surefire sign that something is leaking out of your vehicle. 

If you ever notice any abnormal noises being produced by your truck, that’s another strong sign that something could need service on your commercial truck. Make sure you know what your truck normally sounds like while driving around, then simply pay attention for any noises that aren’t typically there. Some of the most common noises to look out for are squealing, grinding, hissing, knocking and rattling. These noises could mean your brakes, engine, or wheels need service, depending on the sound, and there are surely others less common to look out for as well.

Unless your commercial truck is older, most modern Ford F-Series vehicles will display your fuel efficiency somewhere on your dashboard. Pay attention to what kind of gas mileage you’re typically getting when you drive your truck, then if you notice that you’re suddenly getting lower efficiency than that on a consistent basis, it may be time for your truck to get serviced. Low fuel efficiency can be a sign of engine problems or even issues with your fuel system, so it’s important to bring your vehicle in for an inspection in this event.

Finally, another of the top 5 most common signs your Ford F-Series commercial truck needs service is if you notice steering or handling issues. If your truck is pulling to one side or the other, if you simply notice you’re having more difficulty steering in the direction you want, or if it seems like your steering wheel is turning an inch or two before the wheels follow, these are all signs that your truck could need service. This often means something could be wrong with the steering system itself, or perhaps your suspension system needs service. Most commonly, however, you may just need to get an alignment check.

Hopefully, all of this information helps you get better at maintaining your truck. As we mentioned, it’s very important for the longevity of your fleet and the image of your business to keep your trucks well maintained. Stay on top of regular maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations, then when you notice any of these issues be sure to schedule a service appointment right away. Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions, otherwise we look forward to taking care of you!